Denise Polydor-Beach is the founder of Iron Gait Percherons Draft Horse Rescue and Sanctuary. She kindly took the time to answer some questions about her horse endeavours and this non profit horse organisation. Perhaps if you’re in the area, Iron Gait Percherons would be of interest for volunteer work?
How much of your day/week is related to horses?
24 hours / 7 days a week – 365 days a year. My husband and I are supervising the horses and on call for any emergency.
What is it exactly that you do?
Rescue, rehabilitation, re-home and provide sanctuary to 50 horses. Specializing in draft horse breeds and medically challenged horses.
In this field of work, is it possible to be a full time professional and earning a liveable income?
No. In just 2014 we personally provided $157,000 of our personal out of pocket funds towards the care of the rescue horses. In 2015 we have donated even more than that due to lack of donations and sponsors.
What are the general steps taken to be employed in such a role?
Volunteers need to go through an orientation and fill out an application. We then place them in job roles according to their experience.
Favourite horse memory?
Watching near death emaciated and neglected horses regain their health, spirit and vitality return and watching them canter and be a horse again in pasture.
Future goals?
To continually upgrade the farm to provide the most comfortable environment for all of the Sanctuary. To find financial help to purchase or lease more land surrounding our farm to expand and help as many horses as possible.
Best thing about your sport/profession?
Knowing that we have helped save over 200 needing horses lives in just 5 years of Iron Gait’s existence.
“Rescue the weak and needy; Deliver them out of the hand of the wicked.” – Psalm 82:4
0
20
20
Leave a Reply